AN ARTIST-activist, whose popular character ‘Juana Change’ wore a military uniform during an anti-government rally last Monday, could be facing legal trouble as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) plans on making her “accountable” for such action.

Brig.-Gen. Restituto F. Padilla, Jr., AFP spokesperson, said in a text message sent to reporters: “Ms. Mae Paner popularly known as Juana Change has inappropriately used our military uniform and disrespected it since she is not a member of our reservists corps.”

“We will take the necessary legal action and hold Ms. Paner accountable,” he added.

The Philippine Army (PA), the ground troops branch of the AFP, also issued a statement yesterday condemning Ms. Paner.

“The military uniform is a symbol of authority that must be used properly and with dignity. The unauthorized wearing by civilians impacts negatively on the image of the Philippine Army and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, apart from security implications,” Lt.-Col. Ray Tiongson, PA spokesperson, said also in a text message.

Mr. Tiongson pointed out that “lawless elements have often worn military uniforms to carry out atrocious activities or impersonating as soldiers for other criminal purposes.”

Ms. Paner, a director and actress who portrays the satirical Juana Change that represents a group of artists and social activists, came in character clad in a military uniform during a cultural program organized by protesters during President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s second State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July 24. Among the protest issues raised was the martial law declaration in Mindanao.

Mr. Tiongson warned that civilians should desist from the unauthorized wearing of any military uniform.

Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code, containing provisions on the Illegal Use of Uniforms or Insignia, “penalizes any person who shall publicly and improperly make use of insignias, uniforms or any dress pertaining to an office not held by that person or to a class of persons of which he or she is not a member.”

Republic Act 493 also prohibits the use of military titles and regulates the use of insignias and other related items for persons not in the service.

“We must instill pride in the service and in the uniform and accord it due respect,” Mr. Tiongson said. — Jil Danielle M. Caro

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